NCERT Solutions for Class 8 Social Science Geography Chapter 4: Chapter 4 of Class 8 Social Science Geography, titled "Industries," discusses how raw materials are used to make products. It covers different types of industries such as farming, manufacturing, and services.
The chapter explains why industries are located where they are, considering factors like where materials come from and where people live. It also shows how industries help countries grow economically and create jobs in cities. The solutions provide clear explanations and examples from around the world to help students understand these concepts better.NCERT Solutions for Class 8 Social Science Geography Chapter 4 PDF
1. Answer the following questions.
(i) What is meant by the term ‘industry’?
Answer: Industry refers to economic activities focused on producing goods or providing services. Examples include the iron and steel industry, which manufactures metal products; the coal mining industry, which extracts minerals for energy production; and the tourism industry, which offers services related to travel and leisure. These sectors play vital roles in economies by generating employment, producing essential goods, and delivering services that meet societal needs and drive economic growth. Each industry contributes uniquely to the overall economic landscape, reflecting diverse sectors of production and service provision.
(ii) Which are the main factors which influence the location of an industry?
Answer: Setting up an industry can stimulate the development and expansion of the surrounding area. Several factors influence the location of industries, including the accessibility of raw materials and land, sufficient water supply, available labor force, access to power and transportation networks, proximity to markets, and adequate capital investment opportunities.
Governments often provide incentives such as subsidized electricity, reduced transportation costs, and improved infrastructure to encourage industrial establishment in economically disadvantaged regions. This strategic approach aims to promote economic growth, create job opportunities, and foster balanced regional development by leveraging industrial activities to uplift less developed areas.(iii) Which industry is often referred to as the backbone of the modern industry and why?
Answer: Steel is referred to as the backbone of modern industry because it plays a fundamental role in manufacturing and construction. Virtually everything we use, from buildings and bridges to vehicles and appliances, either consists of steel or involves machinery and tools made from steel. The steel industry serves as a vital feeder industry, providing raw materials like steel beams, sheets, and rods that serve as essential inputs for numerous other industries. Its versatility and durability make steel indispensable in various sectors, driving economic activities and infrastructure development globally.
(iv) Why has the cotton textile industry rapidly expanded in Mumbai?
Answer: The rapid expansion of the cotton textile industry in Mumbai was facilitated by several favorable factors. The warm and moist climate provided suitable conditions for textile production, helping to maintain optimal humidity levels beneficial for manufacturing processes. Proximity to the port enabled efficient transportation of raw materials like cotton and finished products to domestic and international markets, facilitating trade and growth.
Mumbai's access to abundant raw materials and a skilled labor force further supported the industry's expansion by ensuring continuous production and quality craftsmanship. These combined advantages positioned Mumbai as a leading center for the cotton textile industry during its rapid growth phase.2. Tick the correct answer.
(i) Fort Gloster is located in
(a) West Bengal
(b) California
(c) Gujarat
Answer: (a) West Bengal
(ii) Which one of the following is a natural fiber?(a) nylon
(b) jute
(c) acrylic
Answer: (b) Jute
3. Distinguish between the following.
(i) Agro-based and mineral-based industry
Answer: Agro-based industries utilize plant and animal-based products as their primary raw materials. These industries play a crucial role in providing employment opportunities, particularly in rural areas. Examples include food processing, vegetable oil extraction, cotton textile manufacturing, dairy product processing, and leather production.
On the other hand, mineral-based industries rely on mineral ores as their raw materials. These industries contribute to employment in both rural and urban areas. Examples include steel and iron production, heavy machinery manufacturing, and mineral processing industries. Both agro-based and mineral-based industries are essential for economic development, employment generation, and utilizing natural resources to meet various societal needs.(ii) Public sector and joint sector industry
Answer: Industries that are owned and operated by the government are known as public sector industries. Examples of public sector industries in India include Steel Authority of India Limited (SAIL) and Hindustan Aeronautics Limited (HAL). These industries are directly managed and controlled by the government for strategic and economic reasons.
4. Give two examples of the following in the space provided :
(i) Raw Materials: _____________ and _____________________
Answer: Iron ore and Cotton
(ii) End products: _______________ and _________________________
Answer: Steel and Cloth
(iii) Tertiary Activities: ________________ and __________
Answer: Transport and banking
(iv) Agro-based Industries: ____________ and ____________
Answer: Dairy and Sugar
(v) Cottage Industries: ___________ and ________________
Answer: pottery and basket weaving
(vi) Co-operatives: ______________________ and _____________
Answer: Mother Dairy and Anand Milk Union Limited (Amul)